[2026] FIFA World Cup | Historic Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament
The Soccer World Cup, a festival held once every four years.
On match days, many people find themselves glued to the screen at home or in sports bars, passionately cheering on their teams.
Alongside the thrilling matches, the theme songs also become a major talking point.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of classic tracks that have colored past World Cups.
You might just remember those legendary matches and feel your heart race again!
We’ll also cover songs used in Japanese TV broadcasts and official tournament anthems, so enjoy it all the way to the end!
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[2026] FIFA World Cup | Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament (41–50)
buzzer beaterSMAP
“buzzer beater” is a track by SMAP that was included as the B-side of their 39th single “Dear WOMAN,” released in 2006.
In 2006, it was selected as the theme song for sports broadcasts on TV Asahi, including coverage of the FIFA World Cup.
The title “buzzer beater” is said to be derived from terminology used in basketball and ice hockey.
The intro features a soulful bassline and a lively horn section that is sure to get you pumped up.
If you haven’t heard it yet, definitely give it a listen!
STARTLiNEYaita Hitomi
The song chosen as the support track for Fuji TV’s soccer coverage during the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany was Hitomi Yaida’s 15th single, “STARTLiNE.” A rearranged version of “STARTLiNE” was included on the 2006 album “IT’S A NEW DAY.” It’s a simple rock tune with a rock ’n’ roll vibe that naturally gets you pumped up as you listen.
We Are OnePitbull ft. Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte
We Are One, the song that gained popularity as the official anthem of the 2014 World Cup.
It’s a track by Pitbull featuring globally popular singer Jennifer Lopez and Brazil’s national star Claudia Leitte.
Since the host country was Brazil, they likely chose Latin artists.
As you can tell from the lineup, the piece has a Latin flavor, and certain phrases also evoke musical styles like house and samba.
Triumphal March (from ‘Aida’)
When asked, “What’s the quintessential soccer theme song?”, most people would likely answer the Triumphal March.
It’s a powerful piece by Giuseppe Verdi from the opera Aida, performed with a bold trumpet fanfare that heralds victory.
It was used during Fuji TV’s broadcasts in 2002, 2010, and 2014, and has become a familiar tune in soccer-related programs and commercials.
Although it’s a classical masterpiece, it’s become so ingrained as a ‘soccer song’ that even classical music fans don’t object to the label.
Live It UpNicky Jam feat. Will Smith & Era Istrefi
“Live It Up” was chosen as the official song for the 2018 FIFA World Cup held in Russia.
It’s a track by American singer Nicky Jam, featuring guest appearances by the Hollywood star Will Smith and Kosovo-born singer Era Istrefi.
With its fast-paced Latin rhythm and irresistible, head-bobbing groove, “Live It Up” is a perfect anthem for soccer matches.
Be sure to give it a listen!